Understanding the difference between Domain, Subdomain, and Alias

This guide explains the differences between a Domain (or main site), a Subdomain and an Alias.

Preamble

• Although they are related, these three elements (Domain, Subdomain and Alias) have different functions and purposes.
• They can impact Web Hosting through its domain name, or even email since it is quite possible to have email addresses on a subdomain for example.

What is a Domain?

The domain or domain name is the main entrance to your website. It is from this that your users will access your content. It is this main domain that defines what will appear in the URL bar of your users' browsers.

Prerequisites

• Own a domain.
• Own an Infomaniak Web Hosting.

Refer to the guide Create a new site on your web hosting.

What is a Subdomain?

The Subdomain is symbolized by an additional word that is in front of your main domain name. This is very useful in several cases, e.g.:

• this can be used to display "exclusive" or targeted content, e.g. by going to faq.infomaniak.com you arrive at the knowledge base where all the guides are located
• this can also be used (temporarily or permanently) when creating a new site or redesigning an existing site, by creating e.g. new.domain.xyz when the main site was previously domain.xyz

Prerequisites

• Own at least one domain.
• Own an Infomaniak Web Hosting.

Refer to the guide Add a subdomain to your web hosting.

What is an Alias?

An Alias or Alias Domain is a second domain name that points directly to your main site, they share the same web pages. The alias is another entrance to your website. For example, the main site of Infomaniak Network SA is www.infomaniak.com and www.infomaniak.ch is its alias.

The interest of an Alias is to allow you to increase the visibility of your site with your target audience by offering them more entrances to access it.

Prerequisites

• Own multiple domain names.
• Own an Infomaniak Web Hosting.

Refer to the guide Add an alias to your Web Hosting.

The equivalent also exists for a Mail Service.